Check out our interview with talented singer and songwriter McKenna Camille who recently released her new single “Real Me.”
McKenna has always loved performing, but it wasn’t until high school that her journey as an artist really began. Struggling with anxiety, OCD, and depression at such a young age, McKenna now uses those painful times as a catalyst for her music career turning those experiences into powerful songs such as her hit Bad One which discusses anxiety and bullying. The carefree, fun side of this up-and-coming young artist can be heard in her summer hit Strawberry Shortcake. Recently she has been busy working on new music and has released Vacation Flirtation, Runway, and a cover of the single Party Favor.
Follow McKenna @mckenacamille
Describe your sound in 3 words?
Vintage, happy, honest
Who influenced you and why did you choose to make music?
Hannah Montana is how I really got into music but my biggest influences are 70s artists like the Bee Gees and current pop artists like Billie Eilish and Dua Lipa.
Do you play any instrument?
I play piano and ukulele and I’m learning bass guitar!
Do you ever get nervous?
Yes! I used to get a lot more nervous than I do now but it’s always nerve wracking performing new music.
Tell us about your new single “Real Me?”
Real me is a demo I decided to release because of how raw and honest it is.
What’s the story behind the song?
The song started forming when I was in high school and it is about not knowing who you really are because you are putting on so many characters and versions of yourself for other people.
What is the most rewarding part of your work?
Working with so many great people and meeting so many new friends that I would’ve had otherwise.
What book should every entrepreneur read?
The Mountain is You— it’s more a self help book but it is really grounding which is so important especially in this business.
What advice would you give to your younger self and why?
Don’t listen to the people telling you you will fail! I think I used to hold myself back a lot because of what others were saying and I’m glad that is over.
How would your best friend describe you?
Loud.
If you are a book, what would be the title of the book and why?
The title of my book would be The real Hannah Montana – because even though everyone knows I’m a singer, I’m also an athlete which many people don’t know and I sometimes feel like I’m living two lives.
What’s next for McKenna Camille in the last months of 2023 and for 2024?
I have a cover of “F Me Pumps” coming out in November then I am kicking off 2024 with my highly anticipated release of “No Friends” on January 1.
What is your favorite healthy food?
Kale! I love love Kale.
And your favorite cheat food?
I don’t have one because I don’t believe in “cheat foods”.
How would you explain your fashion style?
Eclectic, 70s, 90s
What is your own definition of happiness?
Being on the water!
If you could meet someone living or dead, who would it be and why?
I would love to meet Elton John!
What would be the dream holiday, and who would you go with?
I’ve been so fortunate to travel so much already but I would love to go to Croatia or New Zealand, probably with my dad or my best friends!
Best advice ever given?
If they aren’t listening you’re entertaining the wrong people.
Do you support any charity?
My favorite charity is a charity from my home town – the Oregon food bank. I used to volunteer there in middle and high school!
Where do you see yourself and your career in 5 years from now?
Hopefully happy, healthy and acting and making music I love!
What is your favorite song to belt out in the car/for karaoke?
“Mean” by Taylor Swift
What do you think of Social Media?
I like the fun of posting pictures, I hate the negativity.
Where can we follow you?
@mckenacamille on all platforms!
Book: Harry Potter and the prisoner of Azkaban
Quote: There’s always light in the dark.
Movie: Deadpool 1
Tv Series: That 70s Show
Favorite Food: Croissant
Travel Destination: Ireland or Greece
Sports Team: Portland Trail Blazers and Seattle Seahawks
Photo credit: Hannah Concannon @dressupbox
